Cailin Hudson

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Cailin Hudson is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of developmental robotics and clinical behavioral science, with a primary focus on leveraging social robots to enhance therapeutic outcomes for children on the autism spectrum. Her most-cited work, "Social Robots as Reinforcement in Applied Behavior Analysis" (2020), conducted at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, represents a landmark contribution to the field. This study systematically compared the motivational efficacy of social robots against traditional reinforcers—such as toys, candy, and escapement—within the framework of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). By demonstrating that robotic agents can serve as potent, socially engaging reinforcers during skill acquisition, Hudson opened new avenues for integrating technology into evidence-based behavioral interventions. Her work bridges the gap between human-robot interaction and clinical practice, offering a scalable, consistent tool for therapists. Though her citation count is still growing, the novelty and practical implications of her research have positioned her as a rising voice in assistive robotics. Hudson’s achievements underscore a commitment to translating engineering innovation into compassionate, data-driven care for neurodiverse populations.